Elaeagnus maritima
Elaeagnus maritima
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Pl. 604D — Elaeagnus maritima
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IOverview
Overview
Elaeagnus maritima, commonly known as the beach oleaster, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan and Korea. This plant thrives in various habitats, including coastal areas where it can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It prefers well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and can withstand dry conditions as well as moist soil. Reaching a height of 6 meters, the beach oleaster is known for its edible fruit and seeds, making it useful in culinary applications. One distinctive feature of this plant is its silvery-gray foliage, which adds an attractive contrast to landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Elaeagnus maritima?
Elaeagnus maritima, commonly known as the beach oleaster, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan and Korea. This plant thrives in various habitats, including coastal areas where it can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Elaeagnus maritima thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can tolerate dry conditions but also performs well in moist soils. The plant grows up to 6 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, seeds are a viable method. Harvest the fruit for consumption and sow the seeds directly into the garden soil after removing the fleshy part.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Elaeagnus maritima for the first time
7steps
Start with Elaeagnus maritima for a low-maintenance, beginner-friendly project.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, potting soil, containers if planting in pots.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Elaeagnus maritima in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside. Transplant small plants carefully to avoid damaging roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot with partial shade if needed.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and keep the soil consistently moist. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Elaeagnus maritima in late winter before new growth starts to encourage a healthy shape.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The fruit of Elaeagnus maritima is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. The seeds are also edible but are typically not consumed directly; they may be pressed for oil or incorporated into other foods. Skip the specifics on preparation methods as detailed data on culinary uses is lacking.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)JapanSouth Korea
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 604d8de8-8232-470b-b587-b7d8a556935c
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